Multnomah County has opened the search for a new director to steer its Preschool & Early Learning Division (PEL), home to the voter-endorsed Preschool for All program. Aimed at providing equitable early learning experiences, the initiative is on the hunt for a leader who can manage its rapid expansion, nurturing a culturally responsive environment for the county's youngest learners. With an impressive 70% growth recorded last year, the role is deemed crucial for the program's vision to serve over 11,000 children annually by 2030, according to the official news release from Multnomah County.
The call is out for a director who embodies both strategic insight and unyielding passion, to spearhead this aggressive push towards universal preschool availability. Described by the county's Chief Operating Officer Christopher Neal, found running in overdrive, the program represents an economic boon for the region, easing the financial burdens of working families and investing in local early education.
"Preschool for All needs strong leadership to reach its goal of providing seats for every preschooler in Multnomah County," Christopher Neal stated in a news release. The search is inclusive of diverse candidates, particularly those with experience in leading a multicultural workforce and collaborating across a broad swath of community partners, educators, and government officials.
The new role, which involves a $163M budget oversight and the strategic development of the county's early childhood infrastructure, hinges on the selected individual's capacity to engage with and be responsive to the needs of the community. With over 65% of enrolled kids identifying as BIPOC, and upwards of 30% of the program's seats created in direct response to community demand, the initiative has established a benchmark of success in its outreach efforts, thus targeting leaders intimately familiar with these demographics.
Prospective applicants must submit their credentials online, detailing their vision and capabilities in a comprehensive resume and cover letter. All relevant application materials and the full job description can be perused on the Multnomah County jobs website. While the position will remain open until filled, the county plans to start reviewing applications by October 6, 2025.
The Preschool for All initiative has earned robust support, with over 64% of voters rallying behind the goal to realize a tuition-free, quality early learning system by 2030. And with economists touting a $7-$10 return for every dollar funneled into quality preschool programs, PFA is not just an educative milestone for Multnomah County, but a strategic economic investment with long-lasting regional benefits.
